In pursuit of a challenging 241, Australia initially stumbled at 47-3 before Head’s stellar performance, marking his second century in the tournament, guided the team to victory with seven overs to spare.

Head’s exceptional innings, adorned with 15 boundaries and four sixes in his 120-ball stay, formed a crucial 192-run partnership with Marnus Labuschagne, who remained unbeaten at 58. This pivotal stand shattered India’s dominance, ending their streak of 10 consecutive unbeaten matches in the tournament.

Following Head’s departure, Glenn Maxwell’s final strokes secured the win, igniting exuberant celebrations within the Australian camp.

India’s hopes of breaking their trophy dry spell since the 2013 Champions Trophy faded as Head’s momentum, particularly alongside Labuschagne, thwarted their efforts.

Head’s century marked the seventh in a World Cup final and the third by an Australian, following the remarkable performances of Ricky Ponting (140 not out against India in 2003) and Adam Gilchrist (149 versus Sri Lanka in 2007).

Australia’s triumph was set up by their bowlers, with Mitchell Starc (3-55) and Pat Cummins (2-34) dismantling the Indian lineup, restricting them to 240.

While India made an initial breakthrough when Mohammed Shami dismissed David Warner for seven, Jasprit Bumrah’s quick double strike, removing Mitchell Marsh and Steve Smith, injected energy into their pursuit.

However, Head’s resilience, supported by Labuschagne, thwarted India’s attack despite Captain Rohit Sharma’s strategic bowler rotations in search of breakthroughs.

Head’s journey to the World Cup victory was almost thwarted by a fractured hand in September, but Australia retained him in the squad until his recovery. His impactful performances, including a match-winning century against New Zealand and a crucial 62 in the semifinals against South Africa, validated his indispensability to the team.

This marked Head’s second time inflicting damage on India this year, following his crucial 163 in Australia’s World Test Championship victory at the Oval in June.

His century reached in 95 balls, and earned applause from the Australian dressing room, making him the seventh batter and the third Australian to achieve a century in a World Cup final, joining the ranks of compatriots Ricky Ponting and Adam Gilchrist.

Australia’s decision to field first paid off, with Cummins’ disciplined leadership in bowling supported by exceptional fielding. Despite promising innings from Virat Kohli (54) and KL Rahul (66), the slow and dry pitch favored the bowlers.

Head’s breathtaking catch at cover point dismissed Rohit Sharma, while Cummins’ delivery ended Kohli’s innings, leaving the crowd of 92,453 fans, as well as the home team, with an unforgettable day.